A: WordQ helps the student to decode the text through text to speech, which reads the text out loud to the student (synthèse vocale en français). It also supports the student with spelling with a tool called word prediction. Both text to speech and word prediction are allowed to be used in evaluation situations for eligible students (see below).

Q. Is the student allowed to use text to speech technology when the reading competency is being evaluated?

A. YES. If “assistive technologies” are on the IEP, then the student may use text-to-speech (WordQ) for ANY exam.

“Allowing students to use a reading aid (e.g. voice synthesizer) and a writing aid (e.g. grammar and spelling software, word prediction software) for the ministerial examinations (including reading comprehension examinations in the language of instruction and second language).” (Administration Guide, p. 106).

The measure must be clearly indicated as “assistive technology” or “text to speech” in the IEP, and the student must use the technology regularly in the classroom.

The student must “use this measure regularly during learning and evaluation activities and the student must have been involved in the decision to use this measure.” (Administration guide, p.105).